Russia's Kulturaliki Forum Explores Decentralizing Culture Beyond Major Cities

Can culture thrive outside Moscow and St. Petersburg? A landmark forum in the Urals tackles inequality, innovation, and the future of Russia's local arts scene.

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2026 March 31 . 5:02 PM

1 min read

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Russia's Kulturaliki Forum Explores Decentralizing Culture Beyond Major Cities

The Kulturaliki forum recently took place in the Middle Urals, drawing over 1,000 participants. The event centred on Russia's regional cultural development, with discussions on accessibility, decentralisation, and economic ties to the arts. The forum's theme, Culture: Access Granted?, explored how cultural initiatives can thrive outside major cities. Ilya Markov, Sverdlovsk Oblast's Minister of Culture, led the discussions and launched a panel on The Centralization of Culture. His session examined how shifting cultural power away from capitals could spark innovation and unique local projects.

Vitaly Kurennoy, from the Higher School of Economics, stressed the link between culture and regional economies. He argued that decentralised cultural policies could create jobs and strengthen communities. Meanwhile, Oksana Oracheva, CEO of the Vladimir Potanin Foundation, shared examples of successful regional work, including the *Museum of Vanishing Villages* in Udmurtia. However, no updates were given on its impact since its launch last September. Other speakers included Yury Trofimov, Omsk Oblast's Culture Minister, and Galina Nikulina, head of the Ostanovka Youth Initiatives Center. They debated how to make culture more accessible and whether it could drive social resilience. The forum aimed to shape a new strategy for Russia's regional cultural growth.

The discussions highlighted the potential of culture to boost local economies and community well-being. Organisers and participants left with plans to refine strategies for regional cultural development. The outcomes may influence future policies across Russia's regions.